Four Types of Wrist Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Did you suffer a wrist injury in a car crash? You are certainly not alone. Wrist injuries are consistently one of the most frequently reported auto accident injuries. All wrist injuries require immediate medical attention. Without proper care, these injuries not only tend to linger, they may not even properly heal at all. Here, our Los Angeles auto accident lawyer highlights four of the most common wrist injuries that happen in motor vehicle collisions in Southern California.
Wrist Sprains
Wrist sprains are relatively common injuries in car accidents. Broadly speaking, a wrist sprain is a type of injury that occurs when the ligaments that support the wrist are stretched beyond the limit. In some cases, the ligament may even be partially or fully torn. The abrupt impact and extreme force of a car accident can cause the bending of the wrist in unnatural ways. Symptoms of a wrist sprain often include pain, swelling, bruising, and a limited range of motion. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent long-term complications. With a severe sprain, a period of immobilization and, potentially, physical therapy may be required.
Fractured or Broken Wrist
A fractured or broken wrist is a serious injury. As explained by WebMD, you may hear this injury referred to by medical professionals as a “Colle’s fracture” or alternatively a “distal radius fracture.” Immediate symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and deformity in the wrist area. Most often, the diagnosis of a fractured/broken wrist is confirmed through X-rays. Treatment varies from casting and splinting to surgery (severe cases). Ensuring proper alignment and healing of the bone is key to recovering from a broken wrist.
Wrist Dislocation
Wrist dislocation is a serious injury where the bones in the wrist are forced out of their normal position due to the intense impact of a car accident. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and an apparent deformity—making it difficult to move the wrist and hand. Immediate medical attention is essential for a wrist dislocation to minimize the risk of long-term damage. It is a severe injury. The treatment for a dislocated wrist typically involves the resetting of bones, immobilization of the area with a cast or splint, and physical therapy aimed at the restoration of strength and mobility.
Tendon Injuries (Wrist)
Tendon injuries in the wrist are another consequence of car accidents. The severity of car accident-related tendon injuries can vary dramatically. The most common symptoms of a tendon injury include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist. Proper medical assessment and treatment, including rest, immobilization, and physical therapy, are vital to ensure a full recovery. Without the proper care, wrist tendon injuries have a propensity to linger.
Recovering Financial Compensation for a Car Accident Wrist Injury in California
Did you or your family member suffer a serious wrist injury in a motor vehicle collision in California? Whether it was a wrist sprain, broken wrist, a dislocation, or any type of tendon injury, it is imperative that you are able to secure the full and fair financial compensation that you need to pay bills and cover your damages. California law allows victims to seek compensation for economic losses and non-economic damages. A settlement or verdict may include financial relief for:
- Property damage, such as automotive repairs;
- Ambulance costs and emergency medical treatment;
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses;
- Surgical operations on your wrist
- Prescription medications and medical equipment;
- Rehabilitative treatment/therapies for your wrist injury;
- Lost wages and loss of earning potential;
- Pain and suffering; and
- Long-term disability or wrist impairment.
California is a fault-based motor vehicle accident jurisdiction. To hold another party legally responsible for a wrist injury sustained in a car crash, you must be prepared to present evidence proving that their negligence—carelessness or recklessness—contributed to the collision. Do not wait to get started with your wrist injury claim. There is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims—including car accident wrist injuries—in California.
Contact Our Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney Today
At Personal Injury Legal Group, our Los Angeles auto accident lawyer is standing by, ready to help. If you suffered a wrist accident in a collision, you need a top attorney on your side. Reach out to us by phone or contact us online to set up a free case review. From our Los Angeles office, we represent injured victims throughout Southern California, including in Los Angeles County, Ventura County, Orange County, and San Bernardino County.
